New Jersey Symphony Orchestra first annual Chinese New Year Celebration at NJPAC

The New Jersey Symphony Orchestra presents its first annual Chinese New Year Celebration on February 2 at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark. The event includes an NJSO performance led by Music Director Xian Zhang, as well as pre-concert cultural festivities and a post-concert gala dinner.

Zhang says: “This season, the NJSO focuses on community, and our first Chinese New Year concert is a big part of that effort. Chinese New Year is an opportunity to deepen our connections not only with the Chinese community but also with the general public throughout the state, coming together to celebrate a very old tradition. It’s a great chance to showcase the talent we have in New Jersey, and I feel very pleased and satisfied that we can bring this opportunity to many families and audiences of all ages.”

The 7:30 pm concert program blends Eastern and Western musical traditions, with NJSO premieres of Li Huanzhi’s Spring Festival Overture and Tan Dun’s The Triple Resurrection. Concertmaster Eric Wyrick, Principal Cello Jonathan Spitz and pianist Min Kwon take center stage for Tan Dun’s concerto. The Orchestra welcomes the Peking University Alumni Chorus, New York Festival Singers and Starry Arts Group Children’s Chorus for works including Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy, the “Anvil Chorus” from Verdi’s Il Trovatore, “Jasmine Chorus” from Puccini’s Turandot and traditional Chinese songs. The Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company gives a special performance choreographed to the “Humming Chorus” from Puccini’s Madama Butterfly, and the Edison Chinese School Lion Dance Team performs a traditional dragon dance. Actress Elena Kampouris hosts.

Special pre-concert festivities designed for the whole family include traditional Chinese music performers, calligraphy demonstrations, crafts and more, beginning at 6 pm in the Prudential Hall lobby.

Zhang says: “Audience members will see a pre-show in the lobby that will be just as amazing as the main concert. When you walk into the lobby, you will immediately experience the culture firsthand, with Chinese calligraphy, dancing and performances. When I first started to organize the program for Chinese New Year, I purposefully wanted to bring Eastern and Western music together. The event mixes dragon dances, traditional Chinese folk songs, modern music and very well-known Western opera excerpts. Musically, it will be very attractive for the audience, and visually, this concert will be very colorful and vibrant.”

Concert tickets start at $20 and include both the NJSO performance and pre-concert festivities. Gala event tickets include a post-concert dinner with Zhang and special guests.

Learn more at njsymphony.org/cny.

This concert and celebration are generously supported in part by an anonymous donor in honor of Music Director Xian Zhang.

CONCERT PROGRAM

Chinese New Year Celebration

Sat, Feb 2, at 7:30 pm | NJPAC in Newark

Xian Zhang, conductor

Eric Wyrick, violin

Jonathan Spitz, cello

Min Kwon, piano

Peking University Alumni Chorus

The New York Festival Singers

Starry Arts Group Children’s Chorus | Rebecca Shen, director

Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company | Nai-Ni Chen, choreographer

Edison Chinese School Lion Dance Team

Elena Kampouris, host

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra

TRADITIONAL Dragon Dance

LI HUANZHI Spring Festival Overture (NJSO Premiere)

TAN DUN The Triple Resurrection (NJSO Premiere)

VERDI “Anvil Chorus” from Il Trovatore

TRADITIONAL CHINESE SONG (Arr. Nicholas Hersh) “Farewell”

BEETHOVEN Choral Fantasy

PUCCINI “Humming Chorus” from Madama Butterfly

PUCCINI “Jasmine Chorus” from Turandot

TRADITIONAL CHINESE SONG (Arr. Nicholas Hersh) “Let’s Paddle Together”

TRADITIONAL CHINESE SONG “Gōng xǐ Gong xǐ”

Concert tickets start at $20 and include both the NJSO performance and pre-concert festivities. Learn more at njsymphony.org/cny.

GALA EVENT TICKETS

Jade VIP Dinner Ticket—$1,000
Admission for one to the pre-concert festival, champagne reception, concert and dinner seating. ($715 is tax-deductible)

Ruby Dinner Ticket—$500
Admission for one to the pre-concert festival, concert and dinner. ($265 is tax-deductible)

Sponsorship and dinner table packages ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 are also available. For more information, please contact Laura Bessey, NJSO Manager of Special Events, at Lbessey@njsymphony.org or 973.735.1729.

Full gala information is available at njsymphony.org/chinesenewyear.

NEW JERSEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Named “a vital, artistically significant musical organization” by The Wall Street Journal, the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra embodies that vitality through its statewide presence and critically acclaimed performances, education partnerships and unparalleled access to music and the Orchestra’s superb musicians.

Music Director Xian Zhang—a “dynamic podium presence” The New York Times has praised for her “technical abilities, musicianship and maturity”—continues her acclaimed leadership of the NJSO. The Orchestra presents classical, pops and family programs, as well as outdoor summer concerts and special events. Embracing its legacy as a statewide orchestra, the NJSO is the resident orchestra of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark and regularly performs at State Theatre New Jersey in New Brunswick, Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank, Richardson Auditorium in Princeton, Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown and bergenPAC in Englewood. Partnerships with New Jersey arts organizations, universities and civic organizations remain a key element of the Orchestra’s statewide identity.

In addition to its lauded artistic programming, the NJSO presents a suite of education and community engagement programs that promote meaningful, lifelong engagement with live music. Programs include school-time Concerts for Young People; NJSO Youth Orchestras family of student ensembles, led by José Luis Domínguez; and El Sistema-inspired NJSO CHAMPS (Character, Achievement and Music Project). NJSO musicians annually perform original chamber music programs at community events in a variety of settings statewide through the NJSO Community Partners program.

For more information about the NJSO, visit njsymphony.org or email information@njsymphony.org. Tickets are available for purchase by phone at 1.800.ALLEGRO (255.3476) or on the Orchestra’s website.

The New Jersey Symphony Orchestra’s programs are made possible in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, along with many other foundations, corporations and individual donors.

Auditions: Children’s show at Strollers of Maplewood

AUDITIONS multi-ethnic casting call for

adults, teens, and children (over 7)

The Day the Rainbow Broke Up

An original children’s show by Casey Bell

Audition dates:

Sun, Dec 16, 2-4pm Burgdorff Center for the Performing Arts

Tue, Dec 18, 7-9pm 10 Durand Rd, Maplewood, NJ 07040

Performance dates:

Feb 1 & 8, at 7pm

Feb 2 & 3 and 9 & 10, at 1pm and 3pm (double matinees on Saturday & Sunday)

Rehearsals will begin immediately, as holiday conflicts allow, and will be three times per week until Jan 20 (not all cast will be called for every rehearsal). From Jan 21, all cast members need to be available weekday evenings and weekend afternoons for full cast rehearsals.

About the show:

The seven colors of the rainbow have a big fight and break up. As each color goes off to be the rainbow on its own, they encounter creatures from nature who try to show them the error of their ways. But will the colors learn the lesson? Can the rainbow be saved?

With a little music, a little dance, plenty of comedy, and a whole lot of heart, this show is a fantasy of color and costumes that is a hit with the whole family.

Characters (double casting is possible):

The colors

(kids & teens; gender neutral)

Red  (a happy loner)

Orange  (a dramatic worrywart)

Yellow  (a natural leader)

Green  (a peacemaker)

Blue  (a chill dude)

Indigo  (snooty but lovable)

Violet  (high-key emotional)

The creatures

(adults & teens; gender neutral)

Indigo bunting bird(s)

Tree (and shrubs)

Butterfly(ies)

Lion (and other safari animals)

Fish (and Tiny Bubbles)

Rose & Bud

Bee (and swarm)

The personalities and creativity of the cast members will contribute to characterizations. This is a collaborative project where kids can learn stagecraft as well as explore ideas and, keeping with the theme of the play, celebrate cooperation and diversity.

For more information and sides: www.TheStrollers.org/auditions

Questions? write to TheMaplewoodStrollers@gmail.com

The Strollers  PO Box 83   Maplewood, NJ 07040

A CHRISTMAS CAROL at the Chatham Playhouse

Cast and Crew set for ‘My Very Own British Invasion’ at Paper Mill

Paper Mill Playhouse has announced casting and the creative team for the world premiere of My Very Own British Invasion with book by Tony award winner Rick Elice (Peter and the Starcatcher).  My Very Own British Invasion is produced in association with Hal Luftig, Craig Haffner and Rodney Rigby.  My Very Own British Invasion will begin performances Thursday, January 31, 2019, and will continue through Sunday, March 3, 2019, at Paper Mill Playhouse (22 Brookside Drive, Millburn, NJ). My Very Own British Invasion is generously supported by The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation and sponsored by JPMorgan Chase & Co. Paper Mill Playhouse's 2018-2019 season is proudly sponsored by Investors Bank.

Directed and choreographed by Jerry Mitchell (Kinky Boots, Paper Mill’s Half Time), and with music direction by Lon Hoyt (On Your Feet!), the principal cast will feature newcomer Jonny Amies as Peter, Bryan Fenkart (Waitress) as John, Erika Olson (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical) as Pamela, Kyle Taylor Parker (Kinky Boots) as Gino, Conor Ryan (Desperate Measures) as Trip, John Sanders (Groundhog Day) as Fallon, and Daniel Stewart Sherman (Kinky Boots) as The Hammer.  They will be joined by Travis Artz, Gemma Baird, John Campione, Emma Degerstedt, Trista Dollison, Jay Donnell, Graham Scott Fleming, Douglas Goodhart, Cory Jeacoma, Sage Melcher, Jen Perry, and Daniel Yearwood.

This world-premiere musical tells a fable of young love, set against the backdrop of the exploding 1960s music scene – when England launched the little dustup that became known as the British Invasion.  Based on the experiences of Peter Noone of Herman’s Hermits, who was just a teenager willing to sacrifice international stardom for the sake of girl he loves, the show features more than two dozen chart-topping hits from all the best British bands of the era. 

The production team includes scenic design by David Rockwell, costume design by Gregg Barnes, lighting design by Kenneth Posner, sound design by Andrew Keister, projection design by Andrew Lazarow, and hair and wig design by Josh Marquette. The production stage manager is Tripp Phillips. Casting is by Telsey + Company, Patrick Goodwin, CSA. Jonny Amies is appearing with the permission of Actors’ Equity Association. Paper Mill Playhouse gratefully acknowledges Actors’ Equity Association for its assistance of this production.

“I was 16 when I walked into the Bag O’ Nails in London for the first time,” remarked Peter Noone, singer-songwriter, guitarist, pianist and actor, best known as Herman of the successful 1960s pop group Herman's Hermits. “I had the number one record in England (“I’m Into Something Good”) and John Lennon got me a drink as I sat and watched the hoi polloi of what is now known as the British Invasion—Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton, Twiggy, Richard Harris, Marianne Faithfull, Mick Jagger, Mary Quant, and many more.  Somehow the music had connected us all! Each person had a song that went with their character and I knew this musical story was meant to be put on a stage.”

My Very Own British Invasion will be performed at Paper Mill Playhouse eight times a week, Wednesday through Sunday. Performance schedule: Wednesday at 7:30pm, Thursday at 1:30pm and 7:30pm, Friday at 8:00pm, Saturday at 1:30pm and 8:00pm and Sunday at 1:30pm and 7:00pm. Tickets are on sale now starting at $34. Tickets may be purchased by calling 973.376.4343, at the Paper Mill Playhouse Box Office at 22 Brookside Drive in Millburn, or online at www.PaperMill.org. All major credit cards accepted. Groups of 10 or more may receive up to a 40% discount on tickets and should call 973.315.1680. Season subscriptions are on sale now and are available by calling 973.379.3717.  Students may order $23-$28 rush tickets over the phone or in person at the Paper Mill Playhouse Box Office on the day of the performance. My Very Own British Invasion is generously supported by The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation and sponsored by JPMorgan Chase & Co.

JONNY AMIES (Peter) recently graduated from the Italia Conti Academy in London with a BA Honours in Acting. While completing his studies, Jonny landed his first television role in the new Netflix/Eleven Film series Sex Education. Previous theater credits include The Good Person of Sichuan at The Space (Edinburgh Fringe), and his roles at Italia Conti included Posner in The History Boys; Mike in Saved; Hench in Yen; Todd in Stockholm; Somerset in Henry VI, Part 1; Henshall in One Man, Two Guvnors; and Krogstad in A Doll’s House. Jonny is delighted to be making his professional theatrical debut at Paper Mill Playhouse.

BRYAN FENKART (John). Broadway/First National Tour: Memphis, Waitress. Regional: Darling Grenadine, A Sign of the Times (Goodspeed); These Paper Bullets! (Yale Rep, Atlantic); Diner, Piece of My Heart (Signature); Nobody Loves You (Second Stage). TV/Film: “Law & Order: Criminal Intent,” Red Hook, You Tell Me. Albums: Imperfect Man, Simple & Grey, “We Are” (single). BFA from MGSA/Rutgers.

ERIKA OLSON (Pamela) is thrilled to be making her Paper Mill debut. First National Tour: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Cynthia Weil). Television: “Pose,” “Murphy Brown.” Other credits include Eurydice (Eurydice), The Full Monty (Georgie), and Uncle Vanya (Yelena). Her original music is available on SoundCloud/erika_olson. Training: Carnegie Mellon University, National Institute of Dramatic Arts (Sydney, Australia).

KYLE TAYLOR PARKER (Gino). Paper Mill debut! Recently seen in the Off-Broadway revival of Smokey Joe’s Cafe. Broadway: Kinky Boots (original cast), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (original cast). Television: NBC’s “Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert.” National Tours: Kinky Boots (IRNE Award for Best Visiting Actor), In the Heights. Regional: Dreamgirls, Hair, Smokey Joe’s Cafe. Off-Broadway: Finian’s Rainbow. Solo Concert: The Soul Session. For info on Kyle’s debut album, To Broadway, with Soul.

CONOR RYAN (Trip) was last seen as Johnny Blood in Desperate Measures at New World Stages (Outer Critics Circle nomination for outstanding actor in a musical). Television: “Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert”on NBC. Broadway: Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella. Off-Broadway: Desperate Measures at York Theatre Company, Keen Company’s revival of John & Jen (with Kate Baldwin), Second Stage’s Invisible Thread, and the Public Theater’s The Fortress of Solitude. Developmental: Charles Bingley in Austen’s Pride (5th Avenue Theatre), Chris McCandless in Into the Wild (The Encore Musical Theatre Company).

JOHN SANDERS (Fallon) most recently appeared in Illyria by Richard Nelson at The Public, and as Ned Ryerson in Broadway’s Groundhog Day. Other Broadway: Matilda (Mr. Wormwood), Peter and the Starcatcher. National Tours: Peter and the Starcatcher (Black Stache), Mamma Mia! (Sam). Off-Broadway: Cloud Nine (Atlantic). Eleven years in Chicago theatre included work at the Goodman, Chicago Shakespeare, Steppenwolf, Writers’ Theatre, Drury Lane Oakbrook, Chicago Dramatists, and Stage Left. Television: “The Blacklist,” “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,” “Billions,” “Iron Fist,” “Elementary,” “The Following.” Film: No God No Master, Alleged. Video games: Minecraft, Batman.

DANIEL STEWART SHERMAN (The Hammer) Broadway: Kinky Boots, Desire Under the Elms, Cyrano De Bergerac, A Touch of the Poet, Henry IV, The Full Monty. Film: Mr. Popper's Penguins, Boy Wonder, The Taking of Pelham 123, Gigantic, Redacted, Capers, Pretty Bird, Wendigo. TV: "Gun Hill," "The Good Wife," "Mercy," "Justified," "Rubicon," "Life on Mars," "Law & Order." B.F.A. from N.C.S.A.

RICK ELICE (Book).  On Broadway: Jersey Boys (Tony, Grammy, and Olivier Awards for Best Musical), The Addams Family, Peter and the Starcatcher (winner, five Tony Awards), and this season’s The Cher Show. His book, Finding Roger: An Improbably Theatrical Love Story, is published by Kingswell. Rick is happy to be making his Paper Mill debut.

JERRY MITCHELL (Director & Choreographer) received Broadway’s Tony Award for Best Choreography twice—initially for the revival of La Cage aux Folles and more recently for Kinky Boots, for which he was also nominated as director. In addition to Kinky Boots, Jerry is currently represented on Broadway as the director-choreographer of Pretty Woman. Other recent productions include the pre-Broadway productions of Half Time in Chicago and thereafter at Paper Mill Playhouse and, prior to that, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, which he also directed and co-produced in the West End and for which he was nominated for an Olivier Award for his choreography. In the 35 preceding years, Jerry has been involved with over 50 Broadway, West End, and touring productions, including as choreographer of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown; The Full Monty (Tony nomination); The Rocky Horror Show; Hairspray (Tony nomination, also NBC’s live telecast); Gypsy, Never Gonna Dance (Tony nomination); Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (Tony nomination); La Cage aux Folles; Legally Blonde (Tony nomination), which he also directed; Catch Me If You Can; and Kinky Boots; and as director of On Your Feet!: The Story of Emilio & Gloria Estefan.

A Doll's House, Part 2 - Official Trailer

Review: Perfect Family Holiday Treat at Growing Stage

Calling all parents….. the Growing Stage, billed quite appropriately as The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey, is presenting until December 16 the charming original musical production of Babes In Toyland. This truly jolly, fun-filled event has been beautifully designed to entertain the entire family, particularly the younger members. Everything about this production that features four excellent equity performers, plus a cast of adult and junior community players is a delight. This is marvelous way of introducing youngsters to the magic of live theatre….specially since the show features a large number of junior performers.
If the title is familiar it’s because this stage production is based on the 1934 Laurel and Hardy film* that was originally inspired by the Victor Herbert operetta of the same name. It was conceived by company founder and Executive Director, Stephen L. Fredericks (photo right) and the multi-talented Perry Arthur Kroeger.  Kroeger wrote the adaptation and lyrics ( with Glen MacDonough) that have been set to the music of Victor Herbert. Kroeger, as the TGS Artist in Residence, is responsible for the wonderful murals of classic children's tales on the side walls of the theatre and above the stage on the proscenium. These murals provide a charming fantasy-land like atmosphere that contribute to the excitement, particularly for the the junior members of the audience…..worth the price of admission just to see the interior of this theatre built in 1919, and Kroeger's artwork.
The plot: Tweedle Dee and  Tweedle Dum try to borrow money from their employer, the toymaker, to pay off the mortgage on Mother Goose's shoe and keep it and Little Bo Peep from the clutches of the evil Barnaby. When that fails, they trick Barnaby into marrying Dum instead of Bo Peep. Enraged, Barnaby unleashes the boogeymen from their caverns to destroy Toyland. Who will save the day?
Danny Campos and Donald Danforth  are excellent as Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum (top photo). Danny Campos repeats his great Oliver Hardy impression. Donald Danforth as Dum beautifully projects the sweetness and innocence of Laurel.  Gloria Lamoureux, one of our most talented local performers  perfectly portrays Mother Goose. David Spellman has the meatiest role as the evil Silas Barnaby. He plays Barnaby in the classic over-acting tradition of the famous melodrama  "East Lynne."  Below right)
Sarah Daniels {above left} is a very attractive Bo Peep who keeps losing her sheep. Her true love Tom-Tom is played nicely by Niall Ng.  Brandon Wiener has great fun with his two roles; the Toymaker and Sasquatch the boogeyland leader. The  spreader of fairy dust is the also beautifully voiced Brianna Vitale as the Blue Fairie. Playing a spot-on Santa Claus is Bob Scarpone. Lizzie Raine is Hangnail, Haley Lang is Claw Mark, Zacharry Finizio is Tickleutioner, and the fine voiced Hyron Gonzalez is Jack Horner.
A special treat are the youngsters who display an amazing amount of talent :
Nursery Children:
Kiera Sullivan (Miss Muffet), Brendan Blazier (Little Boy Blue), Tobias Dickens (Jack), Eliza Foose (Jill), Emily Iadarola (Mary Contrary), Julia Ireland (Tom Tucker), and  Ava Tabaranza (Little Red Riding Hood)
Bo-Peep’s Sheep/Little Pigs:
Cora Almendinger, Nicolas Drew, Emma Ramos
Ensemble – Toy Soldiers, Blue Farie Chorus & Citizens of Toyland:
Caitlin Menber, Madison Gennaro, Daniela Palmucci, Ally Takayama, Rochelle John, Casey Gilbert, Marisa Pamucci,and Haley Lang
Director Lori B. Lawrence’s production team includes; Music director Stephen Fox, Choreographer Jillian Petrie, Accompanist Kenneth Hess, Stage Manager Cara Ganski,  Production Design Perry Arthur Kroeger, Costume Design Lori B. Lawrence,  Lighting Design S. L. Fredericks, Light Board Operator Elizabeth Pietz, Backstage Crew William Dienes.

The Growing Stage provides a unique and affordable opportunity for our young people, in particular, to experience the magic of live theatre. Tickets for Babes In Toyland are $28 for adults, $18 for children and $22 for seniors, with group rates available.  Tickets can be purchased by calling the TGS Box Office at (973) 347-4946 or logging onto their website at www.growingstage.com.  The Growing Stage – The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey programs are made possible, in part, by funding from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, and contributions from numerous corporations, foundations, and individuals.
Reviewed by Rick Busciglio   December 2, 2018
* The 1934 film Babes In Toyland also known as The March of the Wooden Soldiers.

Danny Campos and Donald Danforth (all pictures by Jerry Dalia except Steve Fredericks)

TONIGHT Amahl and the Night Visitors at Light Opera of NJ

November 30 & December 1, 2018

5 PM and 7:30 PM both nights

St Mark's Episcopal Church

140 South Finley Avenue

Basking Ridge, NJ 07920

LONJ kicks off its season with Gian Carlo Menotti's Amahl and the Night Visitors, directed by Joanna Hoty Russell with musical direction by Lois Buesser.

First commissioned for television and premiered by NBC Television Opera Theatre in 1951, Amahl has become a treasured part of many families' holiday tradition. A poor young boy is awakened in the middle of the night by a knock on the door, and who should he find but three kings following a star. This one act opera emphasizes generosity and the importance of family, and is the perfect performance to start off your holiday season. LONJ proudly presents Amahl for the fifth time in the company's 24 year history.

LONJ is thrilled to be collaborating with the New Jersey Youth Chorusfor the first time. Under the direction of Tara Postigo, the New Jersey Youth Chorus' Sola Voce ensemble will perform a special concert of seasonal selections before each Amahl presentation. Tickets at  www.lonj.org or by calling 908-655-6023. 

LEARN MORE

Enjoy this first look at the show.

LONJ First Look: Amahl and the Night Visitors 2018

New Jersey Footlights Reaches One Million Views!

Thank you for helping us to reach the one million plus views.  Here are some our favorite plays and performers over the past eight years. Can you identify them ?

‘A Christmas Story, The Musical’ opens tonight in Moorestown

It's 'Opening Night'!! The Moorestown Theater Company presents the Burlington County Community Theater Premiere of "A Christmas Story, The Musical" starting tonight at 7 PM at Moorestown High School (350 Bridgeboro Road). There is also a matinee tomorrow at 2 PM, and four shows next weekend (Friday at 7 PM, Saturday at 2 & 7 PM, and Sunday at 7 PM).

Come see Chance Neal (as 'Ralphie Parker') and Channel 6abc's Rick Williams (as Narrator 'Jean Shepherd') in Shows #1, 4, & 6, or Declan Miller (as 'Ralphie') and MTC Producing Artistic Director Mark Morgan (as 'Jean') in Shows #2, 3, & 5.

The new musical version of the classic holiday movie has a fun score by Grammy, Oscar ("La La Land"), and Tony ("Dear Evan Hansen") Award winning composers Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (also "The Greatest Showman"). Our 50-member all-ages cast and 16-piece LIVE orchestra will definitely get you in the Christmas spirit!

Tickets are available at www.MoorestownTheaterCompany.org or at the door starting one hour before curtain time. We promise you will have a great time supporting community theater (and your friends and neighbors)! "You'll Shoot Your Eye Out!"

Review: ‘Holiday Inn’ pure Paper Mill Razzle Dazzle Delight

The Paper Mill Playhouse in Milburn has been a major force in New Jersey professional theater for 80 years. It has won numerous awards with the the most prestigious the Regional Theatre Tony Award in 2016. The playhouse has been a home for many pre and post Broadway productions including the premiere 25th Anniversary tour of Les Misérables. The theater holds a very special place in my heart as the place that as a pre-teen I saw my very first live musical. The impact of that first production was such that Showboat is still my favorite after all these years. The subject matter of Jerome Kern’s masterpiece still packs an emotional wallop today.

NOW THE PLAY!: The original Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn film was a box office success in 1942 starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire. It is best known for the introduction of White Christmas. The film received a 1943 Academy Award for Best Original Song (Irving Berlin for "White Christmas"), as well as Academy Award nominations for Best Score (Robert Emmett Dolan) and Best Original Story (Irving Berlin). A vastly revised version was produced in 1954 as White Christmas. It featured Crosby again, with Danny Kaye and Rosemary Clooney.

The Paper Mill’s absolutely smashing production is a perfect holiday entertainment. It has it all…. fabulous songs from Irving Berlin’s songbook nicely integrated into the story, attractive talented cast, dazzling dancing, fun lighthearted plot, beautiful costumes, impressive scenery, terrific orchestra. In other words, this is the first-rate Broadway level production we have come to expect from this New Jersey treasure. Please note that this is not your grandchild’s rock musical with sound reminiscent of a sonic boom, in other words a nostalgia delight.

Holiday Inn is laced with showstoppers such as Shaking the Blues Away, Blue Skies, Steppin’ Out With My Baby, and, of course, White Christmas.

The performers are marvelous… led by Nicholas Rodriguez (with the looks and voice of Gordon MacRae). His character Jim Hardy is tired of the tough uncertain theater life and buys a farm in rural Connecticut. His fiancé Lila Dixon, is played by the singing and dancing delight Paige Faure. Lila, however, is not ready to forego the thrill of the spotlight and leaves Jim for a tour with their partner, Ted Hanover. Jeff Kready is perfect as the over sexed Ted. Kready does it all, al la Fred Astaire, he sings, dances and acts (photo above right with Paige Faure). Meanwhile, Jim is learning how hard a life a farmer has. His one blessing is a live-in handy-lady Louise who keeps saving the day. Ann Harada is a comedy delight as Louis (photo above left with Rodriguez). Now, here she comes…the spunky, lovely daughter of the past owner, Linda Mason. Played, naturally, by the spunky, lovely, fine voiced, Hayley Podschun (Peter in the recent Paper Mill production of Peter Pan) How they get to the closing scene….a wedding…can only be revealed by a visit to the Playhouse. (photo below Hayley Podschun and Nicholas Rodriguez)

The fine supporting players include: Young Jordan Gelber who has fun as Danny (boy banker/messenger); Jian Harrell spot-on as the agent Charlie Winslow who still lives with his mother ( Aidan Alberto is alternating in the role of Charlie Winslow.; and Juliane Godfrey as the silver tongued Las Vegas radio host. Others in the large cast are Jordon Beall, Gene Biscontini, Colin Bradbury, Tricia DeSario, Taylor Fields, Kelly Gleason, Berklea Going, Joshua Israel, Julie Kavanagh, Mallory Nolting, Clifton Samuels, JT Teeling, Karl Skylar Urban, Amy Van Norstrand, Scarlett Walker, Travis Ward-Osborne, and John T. Wolfe.

Principal creative credits: music and lyrics by Irving Berlin, and book by Gordon Greenberg and Chad Hodge. Directed by Mr. Greenberg, who is repeating his Broadway effort in 2016. Music direction by Playhouse veteran Shawn Gough. Denis Jones is the choreographer, also repeating his 2016 Broadway effort that earned him a Tony nomination..

The production team includes set design by Anna Louizos, costume design by Alejo Vietti, lighting design by Jeff Croiter, sound design by Matt Kraus, hair and wig design by Charles G. Lapointe.  The production stage manager is Victoria Navarro. Casting is by Telsey + Company, Laura Wade, CSA.

Reviewed by Rick Busciglio November 29, 2018

Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn will be performed at the Paper Mill Playhouse eight times a week until December 30. Tickets may be purchased by calling 973.376.4343, at the Paper Mill Playhouse Box Office at 22 Brookside Drive in Millburn, or online at www.PaperMill.org 973.379.3717. 

Photos by Jerry Dalia and Photo by Evan Zimmer for MurphyMade

Morris Choral Society’s Annual Holiday Spectacular “Songs: Earthly & Divine” December 8 & 9

The Morris Choral Society (MCS) presents its Annual Holiday Spectacular “Songs: Earthly & Divine” in two performances, Saturday December 8 at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday December 9 at 3:00 p.m. at St. Virgil’s Church, 250 Speedwell Avenue in Morris Plains. Tickets range from $15 to $25 and may be purchased at www.morrischoralsociety.org.

The 70-member chorus will be led by Music Director Jason Tramm, showcasing spirited and inspirational holiday music designed to delight the entire family. The program reflects 300 years of great music from Johan Sebastian Bach to Irving Berlin.

The centerpiece of the concert is Benjamin Britten’s A Ceremony of Carols, featuring the talented harpist, Stephanie Babirak. Written in 1942, the composition reflects America’s influence on the evolving musical style of Britten who was just completing a three-year residency in New York City. This popular melodic work, which recounts the Christmas story, was inspired by a collection of English poems written between the 14th and 16th centuries.

The chorus will also perform new settings of “Deck the Halls” and “The Holly and the Ivy” as well as holiday selections by John Rutter, Irving Berlin, Michael John Trotter and David Eddleman. The program includes the New Jersey premiere of Magnificat, a new composition by R. Wayne Walters, the founder and director emeritus of the Morris Choral Society.

Joining MCS for the holiday concert will be the popular sextet Express Male, formed five years ago as an independent vocal ensemble and now a regular feature at MCS concerts. The members of the group are John Collins of Raritan, Bud Leppard of Morristown, Chip Wood of Basking Ridge, Bill Walter of Oak Ridge, Albert Perkins of Philadelphia, Wayne Walters of Parsippany, and Rob Walters of Long Valley. Pianist Ken Rapp of Morristown is the accompanist. 

The Morris Choral Society’s Annual Holiday Spectacular will be held at St. Virgil’s Church, 250 Speedwell Avenue, in Morris Plains on Saturday, December 8 at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 9 at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and $15 for children under 18. For more information and to reserve tickets, call 908-459-5223 or visit www.morrischoralsociety.org.

It’s a Wonderful Life: a live radio play at Mile Square Theatre

Mile Square Theatre, Hudson County’s leading professional theatre, revives its beloved production of It’s a Wonderful Life: a live radio play, by Joe Landry. Mile Square Theatre becomes a live recording studio in the golden age of radio, and MST theatre goers become the studio audience as WMST “goes on air” to broadcast Frank Capra’s popular holiday story.

“This is the fourth time we’ve produced this play, and each production draws bigger audiences. For me personally, I never tire of it. I’m always moved by the story of George Bailey’s journey where he comes to truly appreciate the values of community and family. The show is life-affirming.” says MST Artistic Director Chris O’Connor. “This year Joseph Discher takes the helm as director. Joe’s well-known for his work at Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, as well as stints Off-Broadway and regionally. The wonderful John Keller, who wowed our audiences as Dracula two season ago, comes back to reprise the role of George Bailey. We’re so excited to have him back at MST.” 

Rounding out this ensemble cast is Michael Daly (STNJ, Utah Shakespeare), Tim Nicolai (Public Theater), Maggie Weston (returning as Mary Bailey from the 2016 production), Joelle Zazz (STNJ, Premiere Stages), and Hannah Mount (Vital Theatre’s Angelina Ballerina)as the Foley Artist.

The creative team, led by director Joseph Discher (The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey’s Charlie’s Aunt) includes MST scenic designer Bethanie Wampol (STNJ), costume designer Natalie Loveland (Charlie’s Aunt at STNJ), and lighting designer Jason Flamos (MST’s The 39 Steps).

It’s a Wonderful Life: a live radio play begins performances on Thursday, November 29 and runs till Sunday, December 23. Opening night is December 30.

It’s a Wonderful Life: a live radio play, presented by Mile Square Theatre

1400 Clinton Street, Hoboken

November 29 through December 23: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays @ 8pm, and Saturdays and Sundays @ 3pm

Tickets available at www.milesquaretheatre.org, or by calling 201-683-7014.

Tickets are $30-40 • $18 students and seniors.

GROUP SALES and Holiday Party sales available: email abaldwin@milesquaretheatre.org

Photo Credit:  Joe Epstein.

Discount Parking available at The Harlow at 1330 Willow Avenue and at Little Man Parking at 1300 Jefferson Street.

For more information on Mile Square Theatre, please visit www.milesquaretheatre.org.

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra’s 2019 Winter Festival with Dawn Upshaw

Soprano Dawn Upshaw sings Maria Schneider’s Winter Morning Walks and Mahler’s Fourth Symphony January 18–20 in the second program of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra’s 2019 Winter Festival, “Music Speaks.” Music Director Xian Zhang conducts.

Performances take place on January 18 at 8 pm at Richardson Auditorium in Princeton, January 19 at 8 pm at Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank and January 20 at 3 pm at NJPAC in Newark.

Zhang says: “Performing works by female composers has always been one of my passions, and Maria Schneider’s Winter Morning Walks—with soloist Dawn Upshaw—is a particularly touching piece, based on poems former US Poet Laureate Ted Kooser wrote while undergoing cancer treatments. This is a story about hope in very desperate situations; I think it ties beautifully to Mahler’s Fourth Symphony, which also features Upshaw. She sings ‘Das himmlische Leben’ (‘The Heavenly Life’) from The Youth’s Magic Horn, with its text about a child imagining heaven. The entire program speaks of recovery, hope and salvation.”

NJSO Accent events include post-concert panel discussions with NJSO musicians who perform in hospital settings through the NJSO Music and Wellness Program on January 18 and 20. More information on NJSO Accent events is available at njsymphony.org/accents.

The Orchestra’s signature artistic event, the Winter Festival takes place across three weekends, January 10–27, in six New Jersey venues. Zhang conducts programs with music inspired by poetry, stories and myths. The festival’s first weekend features pianist Emanuel Ax (January 10–12); the festival finale features pianist Daniil Trifonov in his NJSO debut (January 25–27).

Concert tickets start at $20 and are available for purchase at njsymphony.org or 1.800.ALLEGRO (255.3476).

For more information on the Winter Festival and related events, visit njsymphony.org/winterfestival.

WINTER FESTIVAL WEEK II: Dawn Upshaw & Xian Zhang

Fri, Jan 18, at 8 pm | Richardson Auditorium in Princeton

Sat, Jan 19, at 8 pm | Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank

Sun, Jan 20 at 3 pm | NJPAC in Newark

Xian Zhang, conductor

Dawn Upshaw, soprano

Jay Anderson, bass

Frank Kimbrough, piano

Scott Robinson, clarinet

New Jersey Symphony Orchestra

MARIA SCHNEIDER Winter Morning Walks (NJSO Premiere)

MAHLER Symphony No. 4

NJSO ACCENTS

Music and Wellness – Fri, Jan 18, at 7 pm and Sun, Jan 20, after the concert
Join NJSO musicians who perform in hospital settings through the Orchestra’s Music and Wellness Program, as well as special guests, for a discussion about healing and the arts.

Additional concert information and artist bios are available at njsymphony.org/upshaw.

Northern Trust is concert sponsor of the January 19 performance.

2019 NJSO Winter Festival: ‘Music Speaks’

A trio of renowned guest artists with distinct musical voices—pianists Emanuel Ax and Daniil Trifonov and soprano Dawn Upshaw—headline the NJSO’s Winter Festival, “Music Speaks,” in January 2019. The Orchestra’s signature artistic event takes place across three weekends, January 10–27, in six New Jersey venues.

Week I: Emanuel Ax & Xian Zhang

Jan 10–13 in Englewood, Newark and New Brunswick

njsymphony.org/ax

Week II: Dawn Upshaw & Xian Zhang

Jan 18–20 in Princeton, Red Bank and Newark

njsymphony.org/upshaw

Week III: Daniil Trifonov & Xian Zhang

Jan 25–27 in Newark, New Brunswick and Morristown

njsymphony.org/trifonov

NEW JERSEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Named “a vital, artistically significant musical organization” by The Wall Street Journal, the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra embodies that vitality through its statewide presence and critically acclaimed performances, education partnerships and unparalleled access to music and the Orchestra’s superb musicians.

Music Director Xian Zhang—a “dynamic podium presence” The New York Times has praised for her “technical abilities, musicianship and maturity”—continues her acclaimed leadership of the NJSO. The Orchestra presents classical, pops and family programs, as well as outdoor summer concerts and special events. Embracing its legacy as a statewide orchestra, the NJSO is the resident orchestra of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark and regularly performs at State Theatre New Jersey in New Brunswick, Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank, Richardson Auditorium in Princeton, Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown and bergenPAC in Englewood. Partnerships with New Jersey arts organizations, universities and civic organizations remain a key element of the Orchestra’s statewide identity.

In addition to its lauded artistic programming, the NJSO presents a suite of education and community engagement programs that promote meaningful, lifelong engagement with live music. Programs include school-time Concerts for Young People; NJSO Youth Orchestras family of student ensembles, led by José Luis Domínguez; and El Sistema-inspired NJSO CHAMPS (Character, Achievement and Music Project). NJSO musicians annually perform original chamber music programs at community events in a variety of settings statewide through the NJSO Community Partners program.

For more information about the NJSO, visit njsymphony.org or email information@njsymphony.org. Tickets are available for purchase by phone at 1.800.ALLEGRO (255.3476) or on the Orchestra’s website.

The New Jersey Symphony Orchestra’s programs are made possible in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, along with many other foundations, corporations and individual donors.

Discount Tickets This Weekend!

Discounts available for select performances

Date

In order of availability

Annie: The Musical

Reg. $29.50 NOW $22!

Centenary Stage Company
Book and score by Tony Award-winners, Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin. With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of an orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hanningan in 1930s New York.
Get Tickets »

It's A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play

Reg. $15-40 NOW $10-30!

Mile Square Theatre
Back by popular demand, Mile Square Theatre revives its beloved production of It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, by Joe Landry. Mile Square Theatre becomes a live recording studio in the golden age of radio, and MST theatre goers become the studio audience as WMST “goes on air” to broadcast Frank Capra’s popular holiday story. Directed by Joseph Discher and starring John Keller as George Bailey.
Get Tickets »

 

It's a Wonderful Life: The Radio Play

Reg. $20 NOW $10!

The Theater Project
Get your holidays started with this timeless tale.  Based on the classic Jimmy Stewart movie, this American holiday tradition comes to life as a live 1940's radio broadcast. Join The Theater Project in the LUX RADIO THEATER as 12 actors, one musician and an extremely overworked sound technician prepare for the big broadcast of classic story.
Get Tickets »

Monty Python's Spamalot

Reg. $69 NOW $34.50!

Mayo Performing Arts Center
December 2 only! Spamalot tells the tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table as they embark on their quest for the Holy Grail. Flying cows, killer rabbits, taunting Frenchmen, and show-stopping musical numbers are just a few of the reasons audiences worldwide are eating up SPAMALOT!
Get Tickets »

Art House Productions presents Jersey City’s premiere quarterly arts festival JC FRIDAYS

Art House Productions presents Jersey City’s premiere quarterly arts festival, JC FRIDAYS featuring art events that take place in restaurants, galleries, stores, and event spaces in almost every neighborhood of our great city. JC FRIDAYS will showcase a variety of happenings including visual art exhibitions, live music, performance acts, educational demonstrations, and more. All events are free and open to the public. As one of the preeminent art scenes in the tri-state area, Jersey City abounds with visual and performing artists, musicians, and individuals with unique talent; JC Fridays is one of the best times for them to share their newest projects and works.

Sponsors: Visit Jersey City, Harrison Rand, Mayor Steven M. Fulop, Jersey City Municipal Council & Cultural Affairs, Jersey City Department of Housing, Economic Development, and Commerce, Historic Downtown SID, PATH, JCEDC* and NJ Division of Travel and Tourism

Made possible in part by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, A Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts; administered by the Hudson County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs/Tourism Development, and by the County of Hudson, Thomas A. DeGise, Hudson County Executive, and the Hudson County Board of Chosen Freeholders. * Supported in part by a grant from New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism

Supporters: Jersey City Arts Council 

EVENTS AT ART HOUSE:
Cast Iron Lofts- 262 17th Street  (Coles St /Jersey Ave)

201-918- 6019. Wheelchair Accessible.

(art) 6:30pm- 9:30pm AHP GALLERY presents “Affordable Art Show” Jersey City has an Affordable Art Show and it's at the Gallery at Art House Productions! Multiple pieces by 19 artists; this gallery will be FULL of beautiful treasures all under $500! Buy a piece for a friend or more importantly, buy one for yourself! The gift of giving art is a personal one and we will have much to choose from to make your holiday season special. Family Friendly.

(performance) 8:00pm-9pm ART HOUSE PRODUCTIONS presents “Not Medea by Allison Gregory” Art House’s Main Stage production is offering a night to pay what you can just for JC Fridays! A working mother escapes to the sanctuary of the theatre and manipulates the show-- and the audience, inadvertently sharing her own conflicted story. Straddling the worlds of myth, magic, and today’s headlines, Not Medea is one woman's intimate tale that every parent will relate to, told in a boldly theatrical setting.

WINTER JC FRIDAYS EVENT LISTINGS!

DECEMBER 7th, 2018

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN

GROVE (ON AND AROUND)

(art) 6pm-8pm SILVERMAN AND THE MAJESTIC THEATRE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION presents "The Unleashing of Nature Remembered Works on Paper and Canvas by Caridad Kennedy" “The Unleashing of Nature Remembered” is a collection of works completed over the past several years up to the present. Curated by Kristin J. DeAngelis. 222 Montgomery St (Grove/Montgomery), 201-280-4821. Family-Friendly. Wheelchair Accessible.

(art)(education) 4pm-7pm HAZEL BABY & KIDS presents “Hazel Baby & Kids JC Fridays” Unique customized gifts from local artists made on site! Bring your children for holiday arts & crafts 4-7pm. 199 Montgomery Street. 201-369-1999. Family-Friendly. Wheelchair Accessible. Tactile- Tour.

NEWARK AVENUE (ON AND AROUND)

(art) 6pm-9pm VILLAGE WEST GALLERY presents “Ancien Régime: The Pre-Revolutionary World” What are the conditions that bring about revolution? The excesses of the 1%? Social injustice? Corruption? Despotism? Radicalism? Boulangeries with neither bread nor cake? Ancien Régime: the pre-revolutionary world explores our society before the revolution, the forces that swell before bursting. 331 Newark Avenue (4th/Merselles) 201-656-3408. Family Friendly. http://www.villagewestgallery.com

(art) 6:30PM- 9pm GIA GELATO & CAFE presents “Transitions” Catherine Hart is a local fine artist, muralist, community art advocate and educator. Hart is the Co-Founder of The Jersey City Summer Youth Mural Program. "Transitions" is a collection of pieces that reflect how the artist was inspired by influences from both her internal and external worlds. 281 Newark Ave. (Monmouth/Brunswick). 201-216-0555. Family-Friendly. Tactile Tour.

(art) 6pm-9pm GARDEN LEVEL GALLERY present “Ether-real: Amy Neufeld” Amy Neufeld is drawn to special effects in photography. Allowing each picture to dictate her approach, she makes alterations using filters, effects, and texture layers. Amy looks for beauty wherever she may be; whether it is hiking in the woods, walking the streets of a city, or in her backyard. 315 3rd St. (Coles/Monmouth) 917-627-9342. Family-friendly.

(music) 9pm-12:30am FM BAR & MUSIC presents "Friday Night Phishing at FM." Dancing Tony and FM presents Friday Night Phishing with Uncle Ebenezer. Combining accuracy and musicianship with whimsical performance, Uncle Ebenezer seeks to light up clubs and venues the way Phish did when they played intimate settings. Free entry before 10:00pm. 340 3rd Street (Newark/3rd), 201-222-2870. Wheelchair Accessible. www.FMJerseyCity.com

(art) 6pm- 9pm TEA NJ AND WENDY SETZER present “Emerging Under Pressure” Opening of artwork on paper by Wendy Stezer and Barbra Seddon at TeaNJ. Mostly Monotypes. Monotypes are paintings rendered on plexiglass plates that have been run through the pressure of a press. This kind of printing bares only one original. 262 Newark Avenue. (Monmouth/Newark), 201-222-7757. Family-Friendly. Wheelchair-Accessible. 

POWERHOUSE ARTS DISTRICT

(art) 6pm-8pm THE OAKMAN presents "The Art Project." Tour 14 solo artist lobbies including works by Lisa Collodoro, Alpana Mittal, Joe Lugara, Geoffrey Sokol, Deanna Lee, Susan Cornick, Natalie Giugni, Richard White, Linda Gottesfeld, Bithika Adhikary, Nancy Karpf, Yael Dresdner, Peter Delman. 160 First St (Marin Blvd/Provost), 201-685-0117. Family-friendly. Wheelchair Accessible.

(art) 6pm-8pm SHUSTER MANAGEMENT/THE ART HOUSE presents "The Art Project." Tour 12 floors of solo artist lobbies-works by Nan Ring, Stephen Krasner, Robert Egert, Alberte Bernier, Pauline Galiana, Aliza Augustine, Scot J. Wittman, Alan Walker, Roger Sayre, Tomomi Ono, Kate Dodd, Glenn Garver. 148 First St (Marin Blvd/Provost) 201-798-0928. Family-friendly. Wheelchair Accessible.

EXCHANGE PLACE

(art) 5pm- 9pm PANEPINTO GALLERIES presents “Something Blue”  Panepinto Galleries, in collaboration with SPEAR STREET CAPITAL, presents SOMETHING BLUE, highlighting artwork by four artists based in Jersey City and West Orange, NJ - Stephen Cimini, Candy LeSueur, Tatsuro Nishimura and Shari-Beth Susskind. From symbolism, to psychology, to décor, to art - the most popular color in the world by far is the color Blue. 70 Hudson St. (Entrance on Hudson River Waterfront Walkway/ Grand St.) 201-521-9000. Family- Friendly. Wheelchair Accessible.

HAMILTON PARK (ON AND AROUND)

(art) 6pm-8pm SILVERMAN AND HAMILTON SQUARE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION presents "Art and Living Energy: by Cheryl Sylivant " SILVERMAN and The Hamilton Square Condominium Association presents Art and Living Energy: Metaphors of Being Paintings by Cheryl Sylivant is a collection of paintings inspired by 800 oil on canvas works she painted all over the world and is curated by Kristin J. DeAngelis.  232 Pavonia Ave (Erie/Pavonia), 201-280-4821. Family-Friendly. Wheelchair Accessible.

(art) 6pm-8pm HAMILTON HOUSE presents "The Art Project." Tour 7 Floors of solo artist lobby exhibitions with artists Claire McConoughy, Michael Endy, Matt Caulfield, James Pustorino, Monika Kalra, Deirdre Kennedy, Michael Ensminger, Robert Streicher, Pat Lay, Anthony Boone, Hijo Nam, Tim Heins and Bruce Halpin. 255 Brunswick St (9th/10th), 201-533-0333. Family-friendly. Wheelchair Accessible.

(art)(performance) 8pm- 3am ED & MARY’S presents “‘Motley Art Show’ & Karaoke Event” will feature art from Christine Tischio (Turnstyle ART), Joseph Palestina, Juliana de Moraes, Vanessa Velez, Kelly Shane and Mary Snyder. Karaoke starts at 8pm, $5/song. Karaoke $ goes directly to local non-profit arts group ART HOUSE PRODUCTIONS. 100% artwork sales go directly to the artist. Art will be up for 2 weeks after Dec. 7th so check us out! 174 Coles St. (9th/Coles). ‭(201) 839-5604‬. Wheelchair Accessible.

THE HEIGHTS

(art)(performance)(music)(education) 12pm- 9pm ARTISTIC PRIDE PRODUCTIONS presents “Holiday crafting, caroling, celebrating creativity!” Christmas is coming and we've got shopping, traveling, caroling and gift making and giving to do! We'll also be having a christmas sing along. knitting and craft workshops. Let's make a scarf ! 12-5pm & 5-7pm bring your own yarn and needles or purchase yarn and borrow needles from us (limited supply). Winter fashion show, card making workshop and singalong 7-9pm. 1007D Summit Ave. (Charles/Summit) 201-499-5841. Family-Friendly. Wheelchair Accessible. Tactile-Tour. Artisticprideproductions.com

(art) 6pm-8pm 107 BOWERS GALLERY & ARTSPACE presents "Third Annual Holiday Art Market at 107 Bowers Gallery & ArtSpace" Join us for our 3rd annual Holiday Art Market! Affordable art works for sale by local artists. Purchase holiday gifts or add to your personal art collection! 107 Bowers St. (Bowers/Central) 201-280-4821. Family-friendly. www.107bowersgallery.com

(music) 10pm- 12am FOX & CROW presents “RJO’s Jazz release series: Alex Clough” Fox & Crow is a pub & parlour in Jersey City Heights. RJO's Jazz release series features some of the regions best jazz artists. Pianist Alex Clough new release includes all original compositions, each a reflection of Alex's world travels and musical experiences. 594 Palisade Ave (Congress/Palisade). 201-401-0871. Family-Friendly. Wheelchair Accessible.

(art) 6pm-9pm PRIME GALLERY presents "Overlap" an exhibition establishing a subtle harmony between abstract and figurative art co-curated by Gallery Director, Maria Kosdan and featured Artist, Walter John Rodriguez. Walter's work will be exhibited alongside Anthony Boone, Andrea Burgay, Leandro Comrie, Jonathan Joubert, Amaia Marzabal and Fabricio Suarez.  614 Palisade Ave (Franklin/Ferry), 973-953-6497. Family-friendly. Wheelchair Accessible.

JOURNAL SQUARE

(art) 6pm-10pm EONTA SPACE presents "Eonta Space Biennial 2018 THIS IS HERE THIS IS NOW" Art addressing the concept of temporality created within a two year gestation period that informs, mirrors and defies our realities, showing a compassionate understanding and conversely misconstrues our current human condition with an opportunity to sharpen the gaze while celebrating life at the dead end of Dekalb Ave in JC. JC FRIDAYS Weekend Hours: Fri 6-10pm, Sat 4-8 pm, Sun 2-6pm. 34 Dekalb Ave (Dead End off of Van Reypen St), 201-536-1119. Barrier-free. Family-friendly. Tactile tour. eontaspacenj.com

(art) 6pm-9pm SMUSH GALLERY presents “Soft News’ Opening Reception” Join us for the opening of ‘Soft News,’ a group show of immediate, everyday, personal artwork for the human in you. Joe Monteleone reads tarot, aka News From Beyond. On view November 30 - January 27 with family-focused Open Studio days 12/8, 12/15, 1/19, and 1/26! 340 Summit Ave (Summit/Academy). Family-friendly. smushgallery.com

(art)(educational) 4pm-7pm HCCC DEPARTMENT OF CULTURAL presents “Teacher as Artist: Jill Schifter” Join HCCC’s Department of Cultural for an artist reception featuring Jill Schifter, an artist who teaches at The Learning Community Charter School. Her work explores questions of self- image, gender constructs, cultural trauma, and environmental destruction through a variety of media including drawing and collage. Lite refreshments served. Gabert Library (1st Floor) 71 Sip Avenue (Jones/Enos Pl) 201-360-4176. Family-friendly. www.hccc.edu/cultural-affairs

MCGINLEY SQUARE (ON AND AROUND)

(art) 5pm- 7pm FINE ARTS GALLERY AT SAINT PETER'S UNIVERSITY presents “Saturate/Desaturate” Saturate/Desaturate features paintings by Mona Brody, Stephan Cimini, Susan A. Davis and Megan Klim. These artists explores the difficult visual element, color, in a unique and facinating way. Saturation is described as the purity of a color. Desaturation is described a color that is muted. Take a look at how these artists create compositions, express complex ideas and delight our senses. 47 Glenwood Ave, 5th floor (Bergen/Kennedy Blvd), 201-761-6484. Barrier-free. Family-friendly.

BERGEN AVENUE (ON AND AROUND)

(art) 6:00pm - 9:00pm THE ARTS AT ST. PAUL’S & THE INCARNATION present "David Miley's Art of a Lifetime: Works on Paper"  Abstraction, nature-inspired, psychedelia - all are apt descriptions of works by this prolific and longtime Jersey City artist David Miley. Included in the exhibit are Miley's own bound collections. This exhibit will be open during the @ASPI Merry Makers & Artists Market at St. Paul's/Incarnation on December 15. 38 Duncan Ave (Bergen/Kennedy Blvd), 201-433-4922. Family-friendly. StPaulsjc.org

(art) 7pm- 11pm IMAGO BEAUTY GROUP AT THE BASILLICO presents ““Dreamers” Paintings by Vincent Zambrano”  The “Dreamers” series are abstract memories of my childhood spent in Manta, Ecuador. I draw inspiration from my figurative work of photographs, movie scene stills and my own dreams and vision. In this series of my works I mean to convey to the viewers my connection and love of water. Water is powerful, with it’s huge, angry waves or even still as a mirror. 673 Bergen Ave (Fairview/ Duncan). 201-332-6100. Family Friendly, Wheelchair Accessible. Imagobeautygroup.com

GREENVILLE

(art) 4pm- 7pm DELIVERENCE CHILDREN’S MINISTRY IN PARTNERSHIP WITH EPISCOPAL JERSEY CITY (EJC) present “Holiday Art at the Triangle” We will have different art stations where various artists will use their expertise to create holiday images for local families and friends that visit Triangle Park Community Center on December 7. We will also have artwork from local and regional artists on display. 247 Old Bergen Rd. (Cator/Danforth). 551-200-0519. Family Friendly. Wheelchair Accessible. Tactile Tour.

(art)(film)(music) 5pm- 8pm PROJECT GREENVILLE presents “Winter Wonderland!” Join us as we resume our regular schedule of bringing the arts to Greenville this Friday & Saturday with our annual Winter Wonderland! Winter & holiday themed artwork plus refreshments to keep cozy with, toy donation drop off box and interactive community activities! Check our Facebook page for more details and full artist's list. 128 Winfield Ave. (Ocean/Old Bergen). 646-361-1858. Family-Friendly. Wheelchair Accessible. Tactile Tour.